The Scottish Premiership was sealed a long time ago now, as Steven Gerrard’s Rangers ended Celtic’s nine season reign of dominance. To knock Celtic from their perch was impressive enough, but the 4-0 win against Aberdeen confirmed Rangers’ replication of their Old Firm rivals’ invincible season.
Steven Gerrard and his side have not only dethroned Celtic. They demolished them. The Liverpool legend arrived with not many giving him a chance. Yet here he stands as an invincible title-winning, Scottish Premiership manager of the year. His reign has forced Neil Lennon out of Celtic and propelled Rangers back to where they belong.
Gerrard may not have won a league title as a player, but he has made up for that as a manager. And, best believe, the Scottish Premiership will not be his last title.
Steven Gerrard’s Rangers: Invincible and Reigning Supreme in Scotland
The New Kings of the Old Firm
For years, as alluded to before, Celtic dominated in Scotland and often handed Rangers defeat. In the last two seasons, however, the tide has changed. Whilst last year saw Gerrard miss out on the league title, he sent a damming warning sign of things to come with a 2-1 victory at Celtic Park.
A season later and Celtic have failed to lay a glove on Steven Gerrard’s Rangers side, who have defeated their rivals twice in three games by a combined scoreline of 6-1. In fact, the only time Neil Lennon’s side got remotely close to the title winners was in a 1-1 draw in March
Games against your closest title rivals are always season-defining. As a player, Gerrard always turned up for the big occasion- whether it was against Olympiacos, at Istanbul or Wembley. And, now, as a manager, he has instilled that same mentality into his side.
It could be just the beginning for Rangers, too, who will want to not only retain the title next season but make strides in the Champions League. They last appeared in the Champion League in the 2011/12 season- exiting in the qualifying rounds.
A decade on, Rangers will be desperate to become Europe’s underdog of the season next year when finally back amongst Europe’s elite.
Gerrard himself has a great relationship with the competition and has been responsible for some of the most incredible moments.
What Next for Steven Gerrard’s Rangers?
The only question that remains is, what next? Well, first things first, celebrations will be in order, and a much deserved one, too, following an incredible season. And once the hangover wears away, they can think ahead for next season: Their first title defence in a decade.
Rangers will hope that, under Steven Gerrard’s guidance, they can build from the invincible title win to remain on their perch for years to come. Balancing the Champion League alongside keeping out a vengeful Celtic will be difficult, but if any team has shown capabilities of doing exactly that, it’s Rangers.
Steven Gerrard will certainly be ready to win yet another title, this time hopefully in front of a packed out Ibrox, next season.
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